Khabib Nurmagomedov has chosen Dustin Poirier to win against Charles Oliveira to win at UFC 269. The former lightweight champ feels Dustin Poirier has an advantage over the current champion and the fight will be a ’60/40′ contest. But he also gave credit to the Brazilian fighter and called him a ‘real champion.’
“I have it 60/40 Dustin Poirier because of his cardio and heart, Charles is a very, very dangerous opponent. Right now, he’s a real champion. He has a nine [fight] win streak, he beat Tony Ferguson, he finished eight [other] guys.” said the Dagestani fighter to ESPN, when asked about the fight.
Do you agree with Khabib’s pick for Charles Oliveira vs Dustin Poirier? via @espnmma pic.twitter.com/TMushrv8ev
— Bloody Elbow (@BloodyElbow) December 1, 2021
The undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov is currently retired after amassing an unparalleled record of 29-0. His initial scalps include Rafael Dos Anjos, Michael Johnson and Al Iaquinta. However, after winning the title, he defeated Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje back to back. That has solidified his status as one of the greatest. But Charles Oliveira is not bothered about his predecessor’s opinion.
Charles Oliveira responds to Khabib Nurmagomedov
Charles Oliveira is the current Lightweight Champion in the UFC. He fought for the vacant championship against Michael Chandler. The fight was almost over in the first round. Chandler hurt the 32-year old badly. But he showed a tremendous amount of grit and determination. Oliveira gutted out the first round and ultimately finished Chandler in the second round.
He will fight Dustin Poirier in a couple of days’ time. Charles Oliveira is currently the +140 underdog on the betting odds. Although he is a slight underdog, the BJJ expert will have a significant advantage on the ground. Hence, he is not bothered by what other people have to say.
In an interview with The Schmo, “I don’t really care about this talk, People can think whatever they want. Every time someone tells me I’m gonna lose I go there and prove them that they’re wrong and I get the W.”
He further added, “To be honest, I don’t care what Khabib says,” Oliveira explained. “He can say whatever he wants. He’s retired now so I don’t really care about what he has to say.”